Boxes of Twinkies going for up to $10,000 on eBay as Hostess heads to bankruptcy

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Charlene Slighting bought 22 boxes of Hostess Friday morning at her local Meijer.

Though Hostess is officially closing shop, some of its brands -- including Twinkies -- are still proving very profitable, leading many to believe there's hope for one or several of the company's snack cakes.

On top of huge name recognition, Twinkies so far this year have brought in $68 million. That figure could keep hope alive that Hostess will sell the name and rights to the Twinkie recipe as the company heads to bankruptcy court later Monday.

It has yet to be seen whether Hostess brands like Ding Dongs, Ho Hos and Susie Q's will be bought up by another company.

Last week's labor strike ended Hostess' fight for survival. Illinois' Schiller Park bakery is one of 33 being closed along with 65 distribution centers, about 5,500 delivery routes and 570 outlet stores as part of a company "wind down." Operations have been suspended at all plants, putting about 1,400 out of work in Schiller Park.

Illinois workers said they expected this but noted it's difficult to imagine not being here.

"It's a weird feeling after being at a place for 30-something years once they pull the rug out from under you," said worker Abdul Waheed.

A company spokesperson said Hostess already has gotten several inquiries from other companies interested in buying several of the brands.

That's important to know before anyone considers spending big bucks on a box of Twinkies. The boxes are going anywhere from about $10 to $10,000 on eBay as of Monday morning.